FAQ: What Moving Materials Are Needed?

A wise homeowner packs well in advance of a move and uses durable moving materials to ensure everything arrives at its destination intact. Low quality packing supplies won’t offer the protection that fragile items need, and they may fall apart if stressed with a lot of weight. For decades, homeowners would often take leftover boxes and cartons from grocery and department stores, but this is not advisable. Also, most stores are no longer willing to provide boxes to homeowners as they usually choose to recycle them instead. This means that a homeowner will need to look elsewhere for everything they will need.

What moving materials are necessary for a successful move?

Boxes and other cartons are the most important supplies for any move, and a homeowner should have a lot on hand when packing. Moving companies typically recommend three-ply cardboard boxes, as these are strong enough to handle most items. Three-ply cardboard boxes have three layers of cardboard between the outside and inside layer, making them almost as strong as plywood. The additional layers of cardboard also help reject moisture and help them maintain their shape when pressed under a lot of weight. These boxes are usually only available at moving company locations, and they are brand new, adding to their strength and durability.

Boxes are necessary, but without the right tape, they won’t hold together during transport. Homeowners often choose stronger tape than is necessary, but duct tape or heavy masking tape will only be a hassle when it comes time to open the boxes back up. In general, if a person can’t tear the tape by hand, it will likely be strong enough for the move. Standard clear packing tape is the best choice for the job. A tape dispenser should also be on the list as it can significantly speed up the packing process and prevent tape from being wasted.

What kind of moving materials are needed to protect items?

Furniture pads are critical for preventing damage to expensive belongings. Furniture pads resemble soft quilts and are placed under and between heavy items to keep them from dents or scratches. In addition to furniture, these pads are ideal for protecting heavy electronics like TVs or sound systems. They can also be wrapped and taped around fragile items to keep them safe on all sides. Bubble wrap can also be used to protect belongings.

Should a homeowner use bubble wrap or packing paper to provide extra padding?

Bubble wrap and packing paper are essential for packing fragile items together in a box, but only in certain situations. Packing paper can protect dishware, glass, and other fragile items, but it needs to be packed tight. Bubble wrap is extremely useful at providing cushion, but it can be rather costly. When combined, though, packing paper and bubble wrap will provide all of the box padding a homeowner needs.

These are just some of the primary packing materials a homeowner will require during their move. Most moving companies also offer a number of special boxes for wardrobes and dishware, and a number of labeling products to keep everything in order.

Testimonials

Dear Rosemary, I would like to express my gratitude to the entire team that packed and then unpacked my household at the storage center. They all were professional, polite, and very hard working. We will certainly use your team again when our new house is finished, probably late November or early December this year. Again